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LONDON - Drivers who smoke, take note. An auction company says motorists who has smoked in their vehicle over a period of time will see a serious dent in the value of the car when they come to sell.
"The British Medical Association has highlighted research showing the levels of toxins in a car can be up to 23 times higher than in a smoky bar", said Tim Naylor of British Car Auctions (BCA).
"But if drivers aren't motivated by the health of their passengers, perhaps they will be by the diminishing health of their finances. Lighting up inside a car seriously devalues the vehicle for resale.
"Our research shows that presentation is one of the top factors influencing the price of used cars. So if a car is more like an ashtray on wheels, chances are buyers will move on to find one that looks and smells fresh as a daisy."
Professional valeting can alleviate most of the effects of smoking, but is expensive and time consuming and might mean replacing some interior trim, such as nicotine-stained headlinings.
"Motorists should avoid having a cigarette in their car, especially if they intend to sell it in the near future," said Naylor.
"This will avoid the lingering smell of cigarettes in the interior, as well as eliminate the risk of scorch marks on the upholstery or dash. All of these things will put buyers off, even if they smoke themselves."
 
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